This interventional, randomized controlled study tests the effects of a a brief psychological intervention (Narrative Exposure Therapy) against a wait list control group among refugees who have experienced trauma and have some symptoms of PTSD.

The number and severity of post traumatic stress disorder symptoms will be assessed using an Arabic adaptation of the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire.

The Harvard Trauma Questionnaire will be administered at baseline prior to randomization and 4 months from baseline (about three months from last intervention session). Questions assess symptoms over the preceding one week.

Physical symptoms will be assessed using an Arabic translation of the Patient Health Questionnaire at baseline prior to randomization, and 4 months from baseline (about three months from last intervention session). Questions assess symptoms over the preceding 4 weeks.

Depression symptoms will be assessed using an Arabic translation of the Beck Depression Inventory II. The scale will be administered at baseline prior to randomization, and 4 months from baseline (about three months from last intervention session). The questions assess symptoms over the preceding two weeks.

Quality of sleep will be assessed using an Arabic translation of five items from the Karolinska Institute Sleep Questionnaire. The scale will be administered at baseline prior to randomization, and 4 months from baseline (about three months from last intervention session). The questions don't specify a time frame for the symptoms.

Daily functioning is assessed using 8 items developed by the Primary Investigator in collaboration with other colleagues. The items assess areas such as spending time with family and friends, utilizing health, immigration, language, and employment services, and participating in religious and social activities. The scale will be administered at baseline prior to randomization, and 4 months from baseline (about three months from last intervention session).The questions assess functioning over the preceding 4 weeks.

Positive and growth outcomes sometimes experienced by people who have experienced traumatic events will be assessed using an Arabic translation of the Post Traumatic Growth Inventory. The scale will be administered at baseline prior to randomization, and 4 months from baseline (about three months from last intervention session). The questions do not specify a time frame.

Markers of mental well-being such as positive mood, vitality and interest will be assessed using the Arabic version of the World Health Organization's Well-being Index. The scale will be administered at baseline prior to randomization, and 4 months from baseline (about three months from last intervention session). The questions assess functioning in the preceding two weeks.

Refugees from the Middle East, and possible from Africa, who have experienced conflict-related trauma, have symptoms of PTSD, and speak either Arabic or English

Exclusion Criteria:

Currently received exposure therapy for PTSD

Planning to leave area in next 4 months

Contacts and Locations

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To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the Contacts provided below.
For general information, see Learn About Clinical Studies.

Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01288690